Bart Christiaan

Manatee County Wedding Officiant

Hi. My name is Bart Christiaan and I officiate weddings in Manatee County and surrounding cities and counties, including Bradenton, Sarasota, and the islands.* I’m a flexible, easy-going, and fun officiant who will tailor your ceremony to your needs while maintaining the sanctity of the service.

Feel free to call me if you have an emergency or need a last-minute replacement. I’ll do my best to help you out.

To reach me, Email me at: bartcrstn@gmail.com,
or Text or Call me at: 941-840-0057.

I’m not available to officiate on Saturdays due to another commitment, and I’m not usually able to answer calls on that day. However, if it’s an emergency, text me and I will do my best to help.

I look forward to hearing from you.

* Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, St. Pete Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do you charge?
I charge $150 if the service is in Manatee County. More if far outside of my local area, or if multiple trips are required.

How long is the ceremony?
I strive not to be verbose. The basic four-part ceremony (introduction, vows, exchange of rings, and conclusion) usually takes ten minutes or less. Sometimes the bride and groom have custom vows they’d like to share with each other, or they may wish to incorporate wedding traditions such as lighting unity candles or breaking a glass which may extend the service.

How should we dress?
However you like. Most of the weddings I perform are on the beach so the bride and groom usually dress comfortably although some choose to dress more formally. There’s no dress code. Unless you request otherwise, I will wear my officiant uniform of black shirt, slacks, and shoes which I find looks the best in videos and photos.

What do I need to get married in Florida?
All you need is a wedding license, which you can get from any Florida county courthouse. If one or both of you is a Florida resident, there is a three day waiting period before you can get married. If you’re coming in from out of state, you can get married immediately after getting your license.

Will we need to have witnesses present?
No. Although there are two boxes on the marriage license where witnesses can sign, there’s no legal requirement to sign them.

Do we need a permit to get married on the beach?
Not if it’s a small gathering. The Tampa Bay region has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the majority of the weddings ceremonies I perform are on sand.

What happens after the ceremony?
You live a long and happy life in wedded bliss.
As for me, I’ll make your wedding license official by signing and placing my official stamp it. The folks at the courthouse are very particular. They require a current stamp, black ink, capital letters, and accurate information. The license must return to the courthouse from where you got it.

Can we provide input for the wedding service?
Of course. I’d be glad to tailor a custom ceremony script to your needs at no charge, and we can go over it together before the service.

Can you help us renew our marriage vows?
Yes, I’d be honored to perform your renewal of vows ceremony.

Contact:
Email: bartcrstn@gmail.com
Text or Call: 941-840-0057